Vijayawada-Machilipatnam NH set for 6 lane expansion

The Centre's approval for the expansion of the Vijayawada-Machilipatnam National Highway (NH-65) from a four lane to a six lane road has brought a significant stride in infrastructure development to the region. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is now in the process of preparing a detailed project report (DPR) to determine the project's cost, with plans to commence work within four months. This six-lane enhancement aligns with the completion timeline of the upcoming port in Machilipatnam, making transportation more efficient. To facilitate this expansion, the NHAI entrusted KDM Infra with the task of designing the 67 km long highway project, aimed to complete the DPR in three months. Union Minister for Road Transport, Nitin Gadkari, has expressed a keen interest in advancing the project, particularly due to the anticipated traffic growth from the Machilipatnam port. The NHAI is strategizing for future demands, considering the possibility of acquiring additional land to potentially make the highway an eight-lane facility. Despite potential increased costs, the focus is on avoiding legal complications and future delays. With the railway ministry's nod for a new freight loading station at the port, the development augments the region's overall connectivity and paves the way for efficient trade and transportation.